That shopper, Reign Murphy, shared online that while she understood the sweater was designed to be lighthearted, she believed it risked diminishing the seriousness of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Murphy emphasized that using the disorder as a casual joke or seasonal pun could unintentionally blur the line between a genuine medical diagnosis and everyday preferences for neatness or organization.
Her post resonated quickly and widely. Within hours, thousands of people began sharing their views on social media, and the conversation became much larger than the sweater itself.
For many, it represented a broader question about how mental-health language is used in everyday products — and whether retailers have a responsibility to take extra care with these terms.
Many commenters strongly agreed with Murphy, noting that phrases like “I’m so OCD” are often misused in pop culture.
Individuals with OCD frequently experience intrusive, distressing thoughts and compulsive behaviors that can significantly disrupt their daily lives.
Mental-health advocates pointed out that casual or humorous portrayals can unintentionally contribute to stigma, misunderstandings, and the widespread myth that OCD is simply about being tidy or perfectionistic.
However, not all reactions were aligned. A substantial number of people living with OCD expressed that they were not personally offended by the sweater.
Several wrote that they did not believe the design was created with any harmful intent, and that consumers should have the freedom to interpret the message as they wish.
This diversity of opinions demonstrated an important truth: mental-health experiences vary widely, and no single reaction represents everyone.
Recognizing the large amount of public attention, Target spokesperson Jessica Carlson issued a thoughtful response.
She apologized to shoppers who felt uncomfortable or misrepresented, acknowledging that the company values inclusivity and customer feedback.
At the same time, she explained that Target did not view the sweater as intentionally harmful, and therefore it would remain available in stores.
The company emphasized that it aims to offer a wide range of designs that appeal to different shoppers while also listening closely when concerns arise.
Over the past decade, shoppers have become far more vocal about the messages printed on clothing — whether related to mental health, relationships, identity, family roles, or social labels.
Designs that once seemed humorous or harmless are now often examined through a lens of social awareness and inclusivity.
For example, labels like “Bride,” “Wifey,” “Mrs.,” “Boss Babe,” “Trophy,” and others have stirred varying opinions.
Some customers enjoy them as expressions of personality or humor, while others feel they reinforce stereotypes or outdated expectations.
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